Relativity Space launched its first 3D-printed rocket, but there was an unexpected glitch along the way

Relativity Space has successfully launched a 3D printed Terran 1 rocket. Several attempts have been made, but the results are relatively satisfactory. Why do we describe it this way? Well, despite a successful takeoff from Cape Canaveral this Wednesday night, the rocket failed to enter Earth orbit.

What went wrong with Relativity Space’s 3D printed rocket? The reason is still being studied, but according to reports, the engine of the second stage managed to ignite only for a moment. However, the company promises to clarify this issue in the coming days.

Although he failed to reach orbit with his Terran 1, Relativity Space considers the mission a complete success. The 3D-printed rocket was able to pass the Max-Q test – the maximum dynamic pressure – at which it was assumed that a large load would be placed on the body. Despite all the variables the vehicle survived the journey to the sky dome.

Relativity Space remains at the top of the race to launch its 3D printed Terran 1 rocket into space.

Despite all the progress made with its Terran 1, Relativity Space is under a lot of pressure to successfully complete the tests. After all, have already signed contracts to launch OneWeb satellites and the commercial Impulse Space mission to Mars. Meanwhile, competitors such as SpaceX, Blue Origin and Rocket Lab are pushing their research forward and may start gobbling up the company’s 3D-printed rocket lands.

This isn’t the first time Relativity Space has run into trouble. The two previous releases of Terran 1 also faced setbacks., such as difficulty cooling the fuel during its first takeoff. On another occasion, the ship went astray and a software glitch caused an automatic engine shutdown shortly after activation.

But Terran 1 is just a real mission touchdown. In 2024 Plans are underway to launch the Terran R, another 3D printed Relativity Space rocket. and that it will be completely reusable. The company wants to demonstrate that with this manufacturing technology, it is easier and faster to produce this type of rocket, which in turn will lower the cost of putting satellites into orbit in the future.